There’s no doubt about it: the health benefits of nutrient-dense, fresh, organic produce is a keyreason to break out the gardening tools each season.
Purchased produce simply doesn’t have as many nutrients as the veggies that come from our gardens. Commercial growers typically choose varieties that mature quickly, produce heavily, and give a uniform, visually-appealing fruit–all factors that come at the cost of nutrient density. As well, commercial growers often engage in practices that strip nutrients from the soil, which means the vegetables they grow have nowhere to absorb nutrients from. Finally, harvested vegetables lose moisture and nutrients over time, as part of a process called respiration. The longer veggies sit between harvest and table, the more nutrients they lose.
For these reasons, freshly-picked home-grown vegetables are inherently healthier than purchased vegetables. That said, you can maximize the health benefits of your garden by planting those veggies that are chock full of nutrients. There are five vegetables, in particular, that pack a powerful nutrient punch: sweet potatoes, broccoli, brussels sprouts, dark leafy greens, and garlic.
Sweet Potatoes
Sweet potatoes are the most nutritious root veggies out there. They’re terrific for our digestive system since they’re high in fiber and they have a high phytosterol content, which may help prevent duodenal and gastric ulcers. These root veggies are also high in beta-carotene (Vitamin A), which helps maintain the health of our skin, mucous membranes, immune system, and eyes. High amounts of antioxidants prevent cell damage by free radicals, which in turn protects the body against cancer. Sweet potatoes also contain Vitamin B, Vitamin C, and several minerals, including iron, calcium, and selenium.
Sweet potatoes are tropical plants that love sun, heat, and humidity. Best in zones 8 and above, but you can successfully grow sweet potatoes as far north as Zone 3 if you keep the soil toasty under plastic sheeting during early summer. As long as they stay warm, and have plenty of room to run their vines, sweet potatoes are easy to grow.